Polycarbonate and acrylic are the widely chosen substitutes of glass in a wide range of industrial, commercial, and residential applications. Both materials can be formed to varied shapes and sizes through the process of injection molding for several optical applications. However, most of the users find it difficult to make a choice between the two, owing to the similarities in their appearance. Although both these injection molding materials share a few similarities, they differ with respect to another in several aspects. Hence, to make the right choice between the two, we must know the key differences as well. This post aims to compare polycarbonate and acrylic material and thus to make you better understand the differences.
What is Your Choice – Polycarbonate or Acrylic Material?
The below table depicts a comparison between the two widely chosen injection molding materials; polycarbonate and acrylic.
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A transparent and amorphous thermoplastic |
A clear thermoplastic |
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Will not crack as easily as acrylic even if it is drilled close to the edges |
Will crack more easily than polycarbonate under stress |
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It cannot be polished to restore its clarity |
It can be polished to restore its clarity |
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Polycarbonate can handle temperatures up to 240°F |
Acrylic can handle temperatures up to 190°F |
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Its edges cannot be polished smooth |
Edges of Acrylic can be polished smooth |
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Polycarbonate has a higher chemical resistance than acrylic |
It has a low chemical resistance |
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It is more expensive than acrylic |
It is a cheaper material compared to polycarbonate |
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This material has over 30 times the impact resistance of glass |
Acrylic has between 10-24 times the resistance of glass |
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Available in limited varieties |
Acrylic is available in a wide and varied colors |
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Color clarity of polycarbonate does diminish over time |
Color clarity of Acrylic does not diminish over time as polycarbonate |
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Polycarbonate can withstand cleaning activities using ammonia-based sprays. |
Acrylic is less resistant to harsher chemicals |
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Polycarbonate is less clearer than acrylic |
Acrylic is marginally clearer than polycarbonate |
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Polycarbonate can withstand drilling |
Acrylic is more manageable and can be cut with greater ease |
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Polycarbonate plastic has a low flammability. In case it catches fire, it sustains damage. |
Acrylic plastic burns readily and should not be used in environments prone to flames/fire. |
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The Polycarbonate material goes into the making of:
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The Acrylic material goes into the making of:
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In the above-mentioned comparison, you would be able to make a better decision between the two materials for applications across varied sectors. Now, you should know about a manufacturer who is expertise in creating high quality, application specific plastic products and components from these injection molding materials for various industrial segments. The manufacturer you choose must also possess ample knowledge in working with these materials. Considering these requirements, it is wise to partner with Veejay Plastic. The company is committed to offering fast service, on-time delivery and high-quality custom injection molded parts from polycarbonate and acrylic material.
